21 MPG combined likely won’t be the main reason someone buys the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S580 4matic. This full-size luxury sedan is designed to coddle its occupants in near silence, with effortless power and technology that seems almost magical. Fuel efficiency matters, but it’s less important than the overall experience. The S580 is for those who value comfort, prestige, and advanced technology above all, so they are less concerned about frequent trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 S580 4matic gets 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. These numbers are low compared to smaller sedans or hybrid vehicles, but decent for a vehicle of this size and power. The 4.0L V8 engine, with a mild-hybrid system, provides plenty of power for easy acceleration and passing. The nine-speed automatic transmission helps get the best fuel economy at cruising speeds, but city driving with frequent stops will lower your MPG. You’ll get the best fuel efficiency on the highway.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S580 4matic is $2,750. This assumes 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, local fuel prices, and gasoline type. Premium fuel is recommended for best performance, and that can also change the real-world cost. S580 buyers likely consider this cost as part of owning the car.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard estimate, but real-world fuel economy can change. How you drive, how often you use air conditioning, and even your tire pressure can change fuel efficiency. Owners who drive hard and often the V8’s power may see numbers closer to the city estimate. Those who mainly use the S580 for highway cruising might do slightly better than the EPA highway rating. Your driving habits have the biggest effect.

How it compares

The S580 is in a class where fuel economy isn’t usually a top priority, but these comparisons are still useful. The BMW 760i xDrive, with its 4.4L V8, gets around 20 MPG combined. The Audi A8, depending on the engine, can get slightly better fuel economy, around 22 MPG combined, especially the non-V8 models. The Genesis G90 offers great value and is similar to the S580 at around 20 MPG combined for its turbocharged V6 with mild hybrid. Buyers in this class often accept slightly lower fuel economy for the prestige, performance, and features of the S580.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking can greatly change fuel economy. Avoid hard starts and sudden stops; these use more fuel. You can also choose one of the car’s driving modes. Selecting “Comfort” or “Eco” modes will optimize for less gas by changing how the throttle responds and the transmission behaves.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel economy and safety. Check the sticker on the driver’s side door for the recommended tire pressure and check your tires often. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency and wears down tires faster.

Minimize idling whenever you can. Idling wastes fuel and creates emissions, especially with a large engine. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The S580 has auto start/stop, which helps with this when it’s on.

Keep up with getting the vehicle’s regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs better. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other services. Consult all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data and specifically the S580 MPG across all years to understand the brand’s broader approach to mileage.